Pronunciation

/pʌf/

Definitions

Noun

• Aerodynamic force: An outward burst of air produced by blowing or forcing air into something, often causing it to rise or move. Example: “The helium balloon was lifted by a gentle puff.”
• Breath or exhalation: A short, light inhalation or release of air. Example: “He took a deep puff of his cigar.”
• Temporary increase in size or volume: A swelling or bulge, often used metaphorically. Example: “The pillow was puffed up with feathers.”
• An act of smoking: The action of inhaling and exhaling smoke from a cigarette, cigar, or pipe. Example: “He took a long puff on his pipe.”

Verb

• To blow air into (something): To inflate or cause to expand by expelling air. Example: “She puffed up her cheeks to make herself look bigger.”
• To give a quick, light breath: To take a small breath or puff. Example: “After running, he puffed a little to catch his breath.”
• To operate or manipulate something with short bursts: To use a tool or device in a quick, repeated manner. Example: “He puffed the lighter to ignite the fire.”

Phrases

• “Puff up” means to swell or expand.
• “A puff of smoke” describes a small cloud of smoke.
• “Puff pastry” refers to a flaky, layered dough used in baking.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “The wind puffed the sails, propelling the boat forward.”
• Verb: “She puffed the life back into the deflated tire.”
• Interjection: “Puff, puff, puff! The steam engine struggled up the hill.”

Synonyms

• Blow
• Inflate
• Exhale
• Sigh
• Sniff (informal, for a small puff)